The NRL's Round 12 team lists and injury updates are in, and there are some intriguing changes and strategic moves across the league. The new rule allowing six men on the interchange bench but only four to enter the game has already sparked tactical discussions. Let's dive into the team lists and explore the implications of these changes.
Raiders v Dolphins
The Raiders welcome back Xavier Savage from a syndesmosis injury, with Jed Stuart sliding to the bench. Daine Laurie is named at five-eighth, and Ata Mariota starts in the back row, with Ethan Strange and Hudson Young in Blues camp. The shoulder injury to Simi Sasagi sees Zac Hosking return from concussion in the No.12 jersey.
The Dolphins, on the other hand, have Trai Fuller at fullback and Tevita Naufahu on the wing. They also welcome back Isaiya Katoa at halfback after a hamstring injury. The new-look front row features Francis Molo and Jeremy Marshall-King, while Oryn Keeley joins the bench.
Bulldogs v Storm
The Bulldogs have made changes to their backline, with Jacob Kiraz returning on the wing after a knee injury. Enari Tuala moves into the centres to cover for Stephen Crichton, who is in camp with the Blues. Winger Marcelo Montoya has been added to the interchange, while back-rower Josh Curran is listed among the reserves due to a rib injury.
The Storm, with Cameron Munster, Harry Grant, and Trent Loiero on Origin duty, have called in Keagan Russell-Smith at five-eighth for his second NRL game. Trent Toelau starts at hooker, and Cooper Clarke is at lock. Alec MacDonald returns from a hamstring injury on the bench, while Gabriel Satrick makes his NRL debut.
Dragons v Warriors
The Dragons have made strategic moves with Jaydn Su'A named in the centres in his return from a three-game suspension. Tyrell Sloan has overcome a groin injury to be named on the bench. Moses Suli, nursing a back injury, is out, and Loko Jnr Pasifiki Tonga starts at prop.
The Warriors, with Te Maire Martin taking over from injured halfback Tanah Boyd (ACL), have Jackson Ford and Jacob Laban coming into the starting side. Eddie Ieremia-Toeava, Luke Hanson, and Marata Niukore are the new faces on the six-man bench, while Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is listed among the reserves as he closes in on a return from a shoulder injury.
Sea Eagles v Titans
The Sea Eagles have made changes to their backline, with Josh Feledy and Blake Wilson joining the team. Tolu Koula is on Origin duty, and Lehi Hopoate is suspended. Jackson Shereb starts in the back row, and Brandon Wakeham returns at hooker after a one-game suspension. Hugo Hart and Simione Laiafi are the new faces on the bench.
The Titans have Klese Haas at prop and Jaylan de Groot at centre. Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and Jojo Fifita are in camp with the Maroons. Chris Randall (head knock) is listed among the reserves, but if he fails to come up, Arama Hau will replace him in the back row. Lachlan Ilias and Bodhi Sharpley are the new faces on the bench.
Cowboys v Rabbitohs
The Cowboys have made strategic moves with Jason Taumalolo returning after a Magic Round rest to start at lock. Robert Derby comes in on the wing for Braidon Burns (hamstring). Liam Sutton and Xavier Kerrisk retain their spots, while Viliami Vailea and Kai O'Donnell are the new faces on the interchange.
The Rabbitohs have made several changes in the backline, with Alex Johnston back from a knee injury and Latrell Mitchell (back) and Campbell Graham sidelined. Tallis Duncan moves to the centres alongside Latrell Siegwalt, and Talanoa Penitani comes in on the wing for his NRL debut. Peter Mamouzelos earns a recall at hooker.
In summary, Round 12 promises an exciting tactical battle, with teams adapting to the new interchange rule and making strategic moves to gain an edge. The injury updates and player returns also add an element of uncertainty, making this round one to watch closely.
